San Jose, CA to Tempe, AZ Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from San Jose to Tempe typically costs $2,500–$6,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 719 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from San Jose to Tempe
Moving from San Jose, CA to Tempe, AZ typically costs $2,500–$6,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 719-mile move from San Jose to Tempe, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- PODS recently quoted $1,722 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $3,365 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $3,425 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 13, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 04, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 29, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 12, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 28, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 15, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 09, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 04, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from San Jose to Tempe
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from San Jose to Tempe might be as low as $1,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,800.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in San Jose.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $600 to $1,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tempe, AZ to San Jose, CA guide.
Best San Jose to Tempe movers by type
Professional
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from San Jose to Tempe
When it comes to handling your interstate move from San Jose to Tempe, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best CA→AZ movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from San Jose to Tempe
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Tempe runs about 48% higher for singles and -18% higher for families than San Jose.
Singles spend around $5,433 in Tempe versus $3,674 in San Jose; families pay $6,810 compared with $8,354.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| San Jose | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $3,027 | $1,900 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,240 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $1,453,657 | $471,494 |
| Average income (per capita) | $83,421 | $64,080 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,674 | $5,433 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $8,354 | $6,810 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 5.4% |
| Sales tax | 9.38% | 8.1% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |
- Good news! When moving to Tempe from San Jose, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 41% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 68% cheaper in Tempe, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 23% lower in Tempe than in San Jose.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Tempe, as the cost of living for a single person in Tempe is 48% greater than in San Jose. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- Relocating to Tempe could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 18% lower than in San Jose.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 18% lower than San Jose, Tempe boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 14% lower in Tempe than San Jose, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 81% lower in Arizona than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between San Jose and Tempe, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | San Jose | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $293.08 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $48.44 | $70.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.80 | $4.75 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.93 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.50 | $19.17 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $123.75 | $30.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Jose than in Tempe.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in San Jose than in Tempe.
- Eggs cost more in San Jose than in Tempe.
- Bread is more expensive in San Jose than in Tempe.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in San Jose than in Tempe.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Jose than in Tempe.
- Gym memberships cost more in San Jose than in Tempe.
How life is different in San Jose vs. Tempe
| San Jose | Tempe | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 971,233 | 180,587 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 62 | 75 |
| Crime index | 47.73 | 42.36 |
| Safety index | 52.27 | 57.64 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Tempe's population is about 81% less than San Jose.
- Tempe's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than San Jose's score of 7.
- Tempe is more walkable than San Jose with a score of 54 out of 100 vs San Jose's 51 out of 100.
- With a score of 75 out of 100, Tempe is more bike-friendly than San Jose, which has a score of 62 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Tempe's crime rate is lower than San Jose with a score of 42.36 compared to San Jose's 47.73. This means that Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73%.
- Tempe is considered to be safer than San Jose with a safety index of 57.64 vs San Jose's 52.27.
- Air quality in Tempe is Good, and in San Jose it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your San Jose to Tempe move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Arizona moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Arizona, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Tempe without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Tempe
Ready to relocate to Tempe? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Tempe.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cyprus Southwest
- Daley Park
- Kyrene-Superstition
- Mitchell Park West
- University Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Alta Mira
- Dava-Lakeshore
- Meyer Park
- Sandahl
- Tempe Gardens
Things to do in Tempe
Now that you've made the move to Arizona, it's the perfect time to explore Tempe. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Tempe include museums and art centers like the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park, Tempe History Museum, Arizona State University Art Museum, and ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Tempe Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, and Papago Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Jose to Tempe?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Jose to Tempe. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Jose.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Jose to Tempe?
With many people choosing to move from San Jose to Tempe in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from San Jose to Tempe take?
Covering 719 miles, the move from San Jose, CA to Tempe, AZ typically takes one to six days. Some San Jose movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Tempe can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in San Jose offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in San Jose offer AAA member savings.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in San Jose can handle specialty items for my move to Tempe?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In San Jose, 61 movers can handle pianos. 53 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
